October is Depression Awareness Month Published Oct. 7, 2013 By 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- All throughout the month of October, the 445th Airlift Wing will concentrate on promoting Depression Awareness. The primary goal of this mental health awareness campaign is to educate Reserve personnel about the signs and symptoms of depression, offer anonymous behavior health screenings, and promote the availability of support services Service members and their families experience unique emotional challenges. Deployment and redeployment, single parenting and long absences of loved ones are a stressful part of military life. At times, these events can lead to sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and withdrawal from friends, families, and colleagues. Parenting can feel more a burden than a joy. We may feel irritable and even neglectful of our children's needs. When these feelings and behaviors appear, depression may be present. Seeking care for depression, for ourselves or loved ones, takes energy and courage. Depression is a common and treatable condition that, if left unrecognized, can lead to behavioral health issues and possibly suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The earlier depression is detected and treated, the less likely it is to develop into a more serious problem that can impact one's job, career, health and relationships. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of depression may include: Persistent sad or empty mood Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities Changes in appetite or sleep Decreased energy or fatigue Inability to concentrate, make decisions Feelings of guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness Thoughts of death or suicide If you are experiencing some of these symptoms consistently, for at least two weeks, you may be interested in a depression screening. A free, anonymous mental health screening tool is offered is offered on militarymentalhealth.org. The screening will not provide a diagnosis - for that you need to see a professional. But, it will tell you whether or not you have symptoms that are consistent with a condition or concern that would benefit from further evaluation or treatment. It will also give you guidance as to where you might seek assistance. To Help Yourself Do not wait too long to get evaluated or treated. There is research showing the longer one waits, the greater the impairment can be down the road. Try to see a professional as soon as possible. Try to be active and exercise. Go to a movie, a ballgame, or another event or activity that you once enjoyed. Set realistic goals for yourself. Break up large tasks into small ones, set some priorities and do what you can as you can. Try to spend time with other people and confide in a trusted friend or relative. Try not to isolate yourself, and let others help you. Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately. Do not expect to suddenly "snap out of" your depression. Often during treatment for depression, sleep and appetite will begin to improve before your depressed mood lifts. Postpone important decisions, such as getting married or divorced or changing jobs, until you feel better. Discuss decisions with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation. Remember that positive thinking will replace negative thoughts as your depression responds to treatment. Continue to educate yourself about depression. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of depression, help is available. The Air Force Reserve Command Psychological Health Advocacy Program (PHAP) assists members and families who are dealing with issues that may require intervention. PHAP will locate appropriate resources to assist in resolving issues. PHAP team members will follow each Reservist through the resolution of the member's case. PHAP maintains a 24/7 on-call service to respond to inquiries and referrals. 445th AW members can visit the PHAP North Region Office, located in Building 4014, room 121A, or call (937) 257-2396. The PHAP 24-hour call center can be reached at 1-888-810-2400.